LIVERPOOL Philharmonic musicians have voted against renewing the contract of their American chief conductor Gerard Schwarz.

More than half the orchestra have said they do not want Mr Schwarz's present five-year contract to be extended after 2006.

Of the 64 contract players eligible to vote, it is understood 45 voted against, with three abstentions.

The musicians' grievances are said to include programme planning and repertoire choice, which they blame for low audience figures at many past concerts.

There is also some concern over the unprecedented powers given to Mr Schwarz under the new umbrella title of music director.

The musicians' vote came as part of what Phil managers say is a routine sounding of opinions during the mid-term of any chief conductor's contract.

Mr Schwarz will discuss the review's wider findings with Philharmonic chairman Roger Lewis, who is also programme controller of Classic FM, and the Phil's chief executive Michael Elliott.

Mr Elliot said the Phil would hope to have some continuing relationship with Mr Schwarz up to and beyond Liverpool's European Capital of Culture year in 2008.

Any final decision will be taken by the 11-strong Philharmonic board, which includes only two orchestral representatives.

Mr Elliott said: "The review taking place between now and July is part of the normal process which happens midway through the tenure of any music director.

"The board has the view that there will be a continuing relationship with Gerard Schwarz and the review will set out of the nature of that."

Mr Schwarz, who is also conductor of the Seattle Symphony Orchestra, is about to announce details of this third season at the Philharmonic. Mr Elliott said that the repeat programmes which had led to lower ticket sales were being phased out, and audiences were increasing.